Incheon International Airport Competition

AS+GG’s competition design for Incheon Airport’s Terminal 2 is a celebration of Korea’s cultural heritage and success. The form of the terminal, a curved aerodynamic shape, is reminiscent of the traditional Korean building roof lines, thereby reinforcing the cultural heritage.

The expansion of Incheon International Airport offers a new opportunity to draw visitors, create excitement, and set a new precedent as an airport of the future. As air travel expands around the world, the role of airports is changing. Incheon is not just a place for travelers to embark on their journeys – it is part of the journey. That journey should include unparalleled service and convenience, amenities for all types of travelers, and awe-inspiring architecture that is ‘Beyond Expectation.’

An airport of the future is a transportation hub – an extension of the city which it serves - and a city in itself - where thousands of employees serve millions of passengers every year. The integration of the airport both as part of the airport city, and as part of the City of Seoul, is key. The identity of an airport must be shared with the city and country it serves. Incheon International Airport is a symbol of Korea. It is an opportunity for people from around the world to experience Korea, even if they are only visiting for a short time. The visit should be a unique, memorable experience; after all, the Terminal is effectively, for many people, the Gateway to Korea. Terminal 2 must incorporate lessons from Terminal 1 in terms of its successes, along with intelligent planning for future expansion and new excitement in its design.

The design of Terminal 2 is a celebration of Korea’s cultural heritage and success. The form of the terminal, a curved aerodynamic shape, is reminiscent of the traditional Korean building roof lines, thereby reinforcing the cultural heritage. This unique, elegant, and culturally appropriate design will surpass any terminal facility in the world. The skylight starts at the main departure hall and can be seen by passengers in the arrival hall as well as the vertical circulation room the train. Its shape leads passengers in a directional flow along the main circulation route through the terminal – from entrance to aircraft. It extends over a taxiway and into the phase expansion via a bridge. During different times of day the skylight projects artistic patterns and colors of light onto the walking surface below. This provides a unique, shared artistic experience for people visiting from around the world, which they will take with them long after their visit to Incheon. This connection of people through a visual experience is the essence of the architectural vision for Incheon Terminal 2.